If you’ve ever passed kefir in the grocery store and wondered, “Is that stuff actually good for you?”—you’re not alone. In this episode, I talk with Julie Smolyansky, CEO of Lifeway Kefir, who shares how this tangy, probiotic-rich drink became a lifeline for her immigrant family—and a powerful tool for mental and physical wellness.
Julie dives into the science behind fermented foods, the gut-brain connection, and why kefir might be one of the most underrated health foods on your shelf. We also talk mom-to-mom about raising adventurous eaters, the role of dairy in women’s health, and the importance of modeling self-care for our kids.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why kefir supports gut health, immunity, and even mental health
- How fermented dairy reduces inflammation, and why that matters
- What women should know before cutting dairy from their diet
- How to introduce kids to kefir and other healthy foods
- Why kefir is 99% lactose-free (yes, even for sensitive stomachs)
- How food, family, and culture shape our health journeys
- Practical self-care tips for busy parents
Whether you're curious about the benefits of kefir or looking for real-life tips on raising healthy kids, this conversation will leave you inspired.
Resources We Mention for a Healthy Lifestyle
- Information on Dr. Elie Metchnikoff's studies on fermented milk and kefir from 1904
- Read more about the effects of antibacterial everything
- Here's a study on fermented milk and colon cancer
- A kid's perspective on going dairy-free
- Find Lifeway online
- Follow Julie on social media: Instagram, LinkedIn
- Check out Julie's cookbook: The Kefir Cookbook: Amazon, Bookshop, eBook
Get the one-page summaries of each podcast at www.kidscookrealfood.com/Handbook!
Get my favorite organic clothes and home goods at Pact here! Get 15% off your first order with code KITCHENSTEWARDSHIP15.
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